Protein discovery a 'crucial' step in treating Parkinson's

Scientists have made a potentially "life-changing" discovery that could pave the way for new drugs to treat Parkinson's disease.

- REBECCA WHITTAKER

Experts have known for several decades that the PINK1 protein is directly linked to Parkinson's disease - the fastest growing neurodegenerative condition in the world.

Until now, no one has seen what human PINK1 looks like, how PINK1 attaches to the surface of damaged mitochondria inside of cells, or how it is activated. But scientists have now discovered how the mutation switches on and can start using this knowledge to find a way to switch it off and slow the progression of the condition down.

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkinson’s Disease Research Centre, in Australia, have solved the decadeslong mystery. The findings published in the journal Science reveal for the first time ever the structure of PINK1 and how it binds to mitochondria – the powerhouse of a cell – and stops it from functioning properly.

Parkinson’s disease can take years, sometimes decades, to diagnose. Often associated with tremors, there are close to 40 symptoms, including cognitive impairment, speech issues, body temperature regulation and vision problems. The neurological condition affects around 153,000 Britons. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, although medicine, physiotherapy and surgery can help manage symptoms.